Liz gave some very helpful information in her post, Northwest Airlines Assist Those With Alzheimer’s Disease. My mother traveled alone, actually her first airline flight ever, when she was in the beginning stages of Alzheimer’s.  We didn’t realize at the time that’s what it was, but knew she was somewhat forgetful.  However, she made it to her destination and return trip.  Even changing planes in Chicago! 
              
 However, attendants assisted her after a family member got her to the plane  Then she was met by a wheelchair attendant and transported that way to her connection.  I marvel now, as I travel through busy …read more

Northwest Airlines is one of the few airlines that recognizes that traveler’s with cognitive problems require extra assistance. Their Adult Assistance Program is similar to an airline’s unaccompanied minor program in that they will
-Escort on/off aircraft.
-Provide escort at connecting/layover points.
-Positive hand-off during transfers and connections.
-Keep emergency contact information throughout the travel itinerary.
-Provide documentation and verify ID of person designated to meet at final destination.
-Contact designated adult(s) in the event of a cancellation, diversion, or lengthy delay.
There are a few catches. The service is not free, is not provided on international flights, and there is a long list of …read more

Most of us look forward to travel. We research, plan, and organize the where, what, and how with great enthusiasm. Going somewhere new, exotic, and unfamiliar is seen as a fun adventure.
But for those with Alzheimer’s Disease, the adventure is often not fun. Being in unfamiliar surroundings with unfamiliar people can cause increased stress on those who rely on familiar environmental cues to maintain their reality and equilibrium.
Travel is not out of the question for someone with Alzheimer’s Disease. It’s just that extra planning is needed to help anticipate problems and situations that might cause distress.
Here are some things …read more